Gaming is not life, contrary to the popular stereotype of our generation. While I will be the first to admit that my love for gaming goes beyond just a man with a controller; I know that 6 plus hours a day might be a bit excessive. How much do we really need video games? Do they honestly do anything for us? I seem to be pondering these questions more and more everyday....

The reason I've come to inquire about our habits comes from an article that most people in the gaming community have probably read, Chris Staniforth Dies From Blood Clot After 12-Hour Xbox Marathons. Chris Staniforth, a hopeful future game designer, died from a pulmonary embolism which can be caused by sitting in the same position for too long. His father was quoted to have said that Chris would play for twelve hours a day at times.

A life for a hobby. That's what makes me ask, what are video games worth? In Chris' situation, a rare situation for sure, it is evident that video games are becoming too much of a persons life. I love my Xbox, I love shooting people, and I love the visual satisfaction I get from blowing people up. The difference is that I'm willing to exhibit self control. Too much of a good thing, is a bad thing.

I urge people, young and old alike, to enjoy your video games as much as you want, but with a limit. Get outside. Play a sport. Enjoy time with friends without a television and a microphone between you. Find a hobby that stimulates your body and mind. It's that simple. Your health isn't the only reason I request that our generation be more rounded and cultured. It's a sense of accomplishing something that is real. In 20 years, no one is going to care if you had the highest ranking on Halo.